The Academy expects most ophthalmologists to choose MIPS rather than an alternative payment model, due to the limited number of payment models that meet the proposed criteria for advanced models, and the high participation thresholds for providers who choose this option.

Academy position

The Academy recognizes that MACRA is not a perfect policy. For example, there are only a limited number of APMs that apply to ophthalmology, and there are still some things about the Physician Quality Reporting System, value-based modifier and meaningful use that we must continue working to improve. To roll these programs into MIPS without addressing underlying problems would hurt physicians.

What we’re doing

Years of Academy advocacy with other organization came to fruition in MACRA’s elimination of the flawed SGR formula. The Academy continues to work closely with the other physician organizations on implementation of MACRA’s other components, especially the MIPS program. The Academy is pressing to ensure that CMS addresses existing issues with the quality-reporting programs that will comprise MIPS. The Academy will advocate for future legislation to improve or modify MACRA and how physicians are reimbursed by Medicare.